"Merry Christmas Godalming !" was the message from Father Christmas himself as thousands gathered in the town centre for the annual Christmas lights switch-on.

Dazzling illuminations and around 60 market stalls brought festive cheer to the streets of the town on Saturday (November 28) before everyone gathered at the Pepperpot for the big moment.

The choir from Moss Lane School got things underway at 10am with a flurry of Christmas songs before Godalming Theatre Group performed a short extract from forthcoming pantomine, Treasure Island.

Guests were then formally welcomed to the celebrations by mayor of Godalming, Councillor Anne Bott, and Tim Ostle, president of the Godalming and District Chamber of Commerce.

Visitors could take a trip to Father Christmas’s magical grotto and have a ride on the Christmas ponies - back this year by popular demand.

Balloon modelling and stilt-walking elves were seen strolling around the town, and there was a packed programme of live music and entertainment throughout the day - including the Nefarious Picaroons performing some festive pop folk numbers.

This year, panto stars Jack and Jill from the Yvonne Arnaud’s Jack and the Beanstalk and Father Christmas himself did the honours of switching on the lights.

The event was organised by Godalming Town Council and Godalming Chamber of Commerce.